There is so much to be experienced in Portland. Here are a few short truths about this great city. Some are more glamorous than others, but that's what makes Portland, well, Portland.
1. Every time the weather man mentions the chance of snow…
“Remember the winter of 2008 when we got a week off of school??”
I think of this one first because now going to school in Montana, where snow is a regular thing. Thinking of that winter of 2008, I don’t know how many years are going to need to pass before people no longer bring that year up. It cracks me up every time because it was the one time that the Portland area got to experience a decent amount of snow. Not to forget, the week off of school was also fantastic, making our winter break 3 weeks!
2. “Local and hip coffee shops all the way, Local and fair trade only”
Let’s be real. These are great. Support the local, do it. But deep deep down Starbucks will always hold a special spot in our hearts (probably because there are 93 solely in Portland and you don’t have an issue finding one near you).
3. Umbrellas aren’t a thing
Don’t be offended, but people will assume you are from California if you walk around with an umbrella. This is not to say you shouldn't use them, but it is highly suggested that you invest in a rain jacket.
4. No sales tax
It’s quite the perk.
5. Portlandia… How accurate is it?
More than we want to admit.
6. Bicycles
They’re everywhere. Just remember to check over your shoulder before making a right turn, otherwise it could be deadly. Or maybe if you're in town you can participate in the Naked Bike Ride.
7. More strip clubs than churches per-capita
Yup, it’s true. Not our most proud moment.
8. it’s illegal to pump your own gas
Not going to lie, I can count the number of times I have pumped gas on one hand in the past two years. I am still not sure I could do it myself.
9. You’re confused when there is no recycling bin
Do you even recycle?
10. Blue Star Donuts > Voodoo
Voodoo is a great experience, but overall it is mainly a tourist attraction. If you are looking for really good donuts Blue Star is the place to go.
11. Powell’s: books on books on books!
Come and spend hours in the land of books. Sit and read till your heart is content.
12. “Woah, you are from Portland? You must be so hipster."
It is the slight line between comfort and laziness.
13. While majority of these have been directed at Portland, there is so much more than just Portland and you can’t understand the beauty of it until you visit it yourself.
Oregon will surprise you in so many ways. From the diverse landscape, to the opportunities it holds. We Oregonians are proud to call this place home, for there is nowhere else like it.
